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Samoura nominated as FIFA secretary-general

Senegal's Fatma Samoura is set to become the second most powerful person at football's world governing body. If confirmed, she would be the first woman in the post - a major change in the male-dominated world of FIFA.

FIFA announced the appointment of Samoura, a United Nations diplomat, at the organization's annual congress in Mexico City.

"She will bring a fresh wind to FIFA - somebody from outside, not somebody from inside, not somebody from the past but somebody new," FIFA President Gianni Infantino told congress delegates. "Fatma is a woman with international experience and vision who has worked on some of the most challenging issues of our time."

The 54-year-old Samoura has no previous experience in football. She has worked for the United Nations for more than twenty years and is currently engaged in the United Nations Development Program in Nigeria.

"She has proven ability to build and lead teams, and improve the way organisations perform," Infantino said. "Importantly for FIFA, she also understands that transparency and accountability are at the heart of any well-run and responsible organisation."

Samoura still has to be confirmed. If she is, she would replace Jérôme Valcke, who was fired earlier this year amidst the scandals surrounding FIFA. The body's secretary-general is responsible for monitoring revenues and manages its operative business.